Juventus Hopes to Emulate Rashford Deal for Zirkzee, Considers Two Chelsea Alternatives

Reports from Sunday suggest that Juventus is pursuing a transfer for Joshua Zirkzee, adopting a strategy similar to Barcelona's acquisition of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United last summer. The Turin club is also reportedly tracking two alternative targets at Chelsea should a move for the Dutch striker not materialize.

Juve's Strategy: Zirkzee Loan Option and Chelsea Contingencies

Juventus has been active in the transfer market recently, with Randal Kolo Muani and Kerim Alajbegovic poised to finalize their moves to the club. These are expected to be Juventus's third and fourth signings of the summer, following the earlier arrivals of Jeff Ekhator and Zeki Celik.

Despite these additions, coach Luciano Spalletti is keen to bolster his attacking options further, especially after the departure of Dusan Vlahovic upon contract expiry and with Lois Openda reportedly joining Lyon on loan. Spalletti is said to be looking for another physically imposing striker, and the 6'4" Zirkzee, who is not anticipated to play a significant role for Manchester United under Michael Carrick, has re-emerged as a potential target. The former Bologna forward was also linked with a return to Serie A in January.

Italian media outlets have indicated that Manchester United would seek a fee in the range of €35 million to €40 million for Zirkzee's transfer this summer. However, according to Sunday's reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus's preferred scenario involves a loan agreement with a non-mandatory purchase option. The publication notes that Juventus is confident in achieving a deal structured similarly to how Barcelona secured Marcus Rashford on loan last season.

La Gazzetta dello Sport further reveals that Juventus is also monitoring developments at Chelsea, where both Liam Delap and Emmanuel Emegha could become available for loan towards the end of the transfer window.

The success of these transfer plans, however, is contingent on Juventus finding a new club for Jonathan David. The Canadian international reportedly struggled to make a significant impact in his first season in Turin during 2025-26, and Juventus is reportedly ready to part ways with him. Nevertheless, David himself is said to be keen on staying and fighting for his place to prove his worth to the Juventus supporters.